R.G.D. Museum Surviving R.G.D. Examples Register Page

R.G.D. Survivors Register.

R.G.D. receivers were produced in comparatively small quantities compared to other British radio and television manufacturers, and it would be interesting to ascertain how many examples of each model still exist. In some cases no examples are known to have survived of particular models, indeed in some instances it is not even known what the equipment looked like as no advertising or promotional references can be found.

To aid research in assessing the number of R.G.D. receivers still in existence visitors to this website are invited to email the R.G.D. Museum website model numbers and serial numbers of any R.G.D. products they own. When enough meaningful data has been compiled a table will be published on this website indicating the known number of surviving examples. It is thought this will be of interest to any current owners of R.G.D. equipment, and who knows – you may turn out to have the only known remaining example of receiver.

Eventually it is hoped to acquire enough information to compile a table similar to the early television database, where owners of pre WWII televisions from around the world have contributed information to enable this valuable resource to be compiled. It is anticipated that the survival rate may be something in the order of about 1%.

The R.G.D. Museum and this website has no desire to be involved with data records storage and retention regulations, so only model number and serial number of each item is sought (not names/addresses etc). It would be helpful (though not essential) if a digital photo of the item and its serial number plate could be included to improve data integrity. Any owners unsure of the model number of their receiver can look for a similar image in the model range pages of this website. Prior to WWII the model number was often not obvious, unless the receiver had a card back.

Serial numbers of R.G.D. products appeared in three formats over the years up to 1952. The image below left indicates the early method, in use up until about 1933, where the number is punched into a metal plate riveted to the chassis. The middle picture below indicates the method used from about 1933 up until WWII. This is a very small brass plate usually found on the back of the cabinet, though sometimes on the chassis (usually the tuner chassis if two fitted). After WWII the serial number was prominently displayed on a plate which also included the model number on the rear of the cabinet, similar to the image shown below right.

Image showing serial number in early models

If you would like to contribute data please send information and images to the address on the "Wanted/Contact" page.